Brian Barden, who formed the Kendal-based planning consultants in 1986, will join Steven Abbott Associates as a consultant.

Barden Planning Consultant's Kendal office is being retained by Steven Abbott Associates as its looks to further strengthen its presence in Cumbria, northern Lancashire and the North East.

Richard Percy, partner at Steven Abbott Associates, said: "Brian works with a lot of housebuilders within the Cumbria and Lancashire area, including Russell Armer Homes, and he also deals with leisure and tourism clients in the Lake District."

Established in 1989, clients of Steven Abbott Associates include Booths Supermarkets, Countryside Properties, Consolidated Property Group and Aldi Stores.

Steven Abbott Associates also has an office in Manchester. A total of 12 staff are based across the three offices.